IIITH's study on construction-related air pollution earns environmental award

Hyderabad: A team from the city-based International Institute of Information Technology (IIITH) has won a prize for its study on construction-related air pollution in indoor and outdoor environments.

The multi-disciplinary project involved an internet of things (IoT) -led investigation to capture data on particulate matter, temperature, humidity, and carbondioxide levels, both indoors and outdoors near a construction site.

The study collected 65,000 data points in a 40-day period and its analysis surprising findings. Contrary to the belief that indoor spaces are safe when the doors and windows are closed, the study said that inadequate ventilation led to toxic indoor air quality.

Proximity to construction sites impacted elevated particulate matter levels, but wind patterns also played a role, the paper said. The team urged caution in construction activities and formally lodged a complaint with the Central Pollution Control Board, prompting an investigation.

Notably, in response to New Delhi's alarming spike in air pollution in early November, the Delhi government had implemented a temporary ban on construction activities.

The study not only shed light on the immediate health effects but also aimed to bridge the gap between knowledge and action, a statement from IIIT-H said.

The research, headed by Prof. Kavita Vemuri, won the best paper award at the 11th International Conference on Environment Pollution and Prevention in Brisbane, Australia, IIIT-H said. The multi-disciplinary project was funded by the National Geospatial Programme and the PRIF Social Incubator Programme.

Prof. Sachin Chaudhari, associate professor, IIIT-H signal Processing and Communications Research Centre, mentioned a forthcoming study on the long-term effects of pollution, emphasising the need for environmentally responsible construction practices.